Bry Mammana didn't have to choose between two passions. Athletic training let her keep one foot in the medical world and the other on the field. "I decided to pursue this career because I was able to work in the medical field and still be directly involved in athletics," she said. For her, helping people return to the sports they love is more than a job — it's a calling.

Now at Florida Southern, Mammana is part of the backbone that keeps teams moving. Her days don't follow a typical nine-to-five rhythm, but that's exactly what she loves about it. Each season, each athlete, and each day brings a new challenge — and a new chance to make a difference.

Building a Career Rooted in Care

Mammana's path began at the University of Florida, where she earned her undergraduate degree in Athletic Training before sitting for her board exam. She continued to deepen her expertise at the University of South Carolina, completing a two-year graduate assistantship and a master's in Advanced Athletic Training. When it came time to choose her next step, family and opportunity led her back to Florida — and to Florida Southern.

The rhythm of athletic training is shaped by the seasons. "Depending on where your teams are in season, it may look a little bit different," she said. Her days blend paperwork, rehabilitation sessions, pre-practice preparation, and practice coverage. Whether she's taping an ankle, designing a rehab plan, or monitoring an athlete's progress, the goal remains the same: keep athletes healthy and help them return to play safely.

Moments That Matter Most

For Mammana, the most rewarding part of the job is seeing athletes come back stronger. "It is very rewarding to see athletes being able to return to play after having to sit out for an injury," she said. Those moments — whether it's a quick recovery or a comeback after surgery — remind her why the long hours are worth it. The wins aren't always measured on the scoreboard, either. She finds just as much pride in athletes' personal growth, from building confidence to reaching goals beyond the field.

The weight of responsibility is never far from her mind, especially during emergencies. "Every emergency situation or large injury that requires a trip to the hospital really shows the need for athletic trainers," she said. In those moments, she's reminded that the care she provides can be life-changing — and sometimes lifesaving.

The Work You Don't See

Athletic trainers often work behind the scenes, and Mammana wants people to know how much that work matters. "There is a lot that we do behind the scenes," she said. Beyond the pregame tape jobs, athletic trainers evaluate injuries, create rehab plans, provide acute and emergency care, and support athletes' mental health. The public got a rare look at that reality during the Damar Hamlin cardiac event, when athletic trainers were among the first responders on the field.

Her advice to future athletic trainers is simple: explore the field fully. "My advice would be to go and meet different athletic trainers, in a variety of settings," she said. Whether in high schools, colleges, or clinics, those experiences help young professionals discover where they fit and what they love.

Through it all — the early mornings, late nights, and high-pressure moments — Mammana stays motivated by the small victories. "What keeps me motivated are the small wins through the year," she said. Watching an athlete play pain-free again, seeing them grow as people, or celebrating a dream job offer reminds her that every day on the field is a chance to make a difference."